Security System with Integrated HVAC control

ABSTRACT

A monitoring security system can be coupled to a thermostatic HVAC control module, either wired or wirelessly. In at least some embodiments, the thermostatic module can be communicated with via an interactive interface of the security system. Information as to the operation of the security system and the module can be presented on a common display of the security system, and commands, which are directed to the module, can be entered via the security system.

FIELD

The application pertains to security alarm systems used to monitorconditions in a region of interest. More particularly, the applicationpertains to such systems which incorporate one or more HVAC controlinterfaces.

BACKGROUND

Security alarm systems are known to monitor conditions in a region, forexample a residence or a commercial building. In the past, such systemsdid not include integrated thermostat functions nor HVAC-type interfacesto control heating, cooling or ventilation equipment.

FIG. 1 illustrates a known, residential configuration. As illustrated inFIG. 1, a residence R might include a security monitoring system with alocal control panel P which communicates with a plurality of detectorsD1, D2 . . . Dn installed throughout the structure. The detectors Dimight include door or window position detectors, glass break detectors,intrusion detectors, gas, fire or smoke detectors or the like.

In addition to the security monitor system, the residence R wouldusually include a separate thermostat T coupled to a furnace F, and anair conditioner AC to maintain an appropriate environment in theresidence. In known installations, the two systems have been separateand operated independently of one another.

Opportunities exist for integrated home/building control systems whichinclude both security monitoring and environmental control. Preferablysuch systems could provide both energy savings and remote access.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a diagram of a prior art monitoring system in aresidence;

FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment hereof;

FIG. 3 illustrates another embodiment hereof;

FIG. 4 illustrates yet another embodiment hereof; and

FIG. 5 illustrates a cloud-based embodiment hereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While disclosed embodiments can take many different forms, specificembodiments thereof are shown in the drawings and will be describedherein in detail with the understanding that the present disclosure isto be considered as an exemplification of the principles thereof as wellas the best mode of practicing same, and is not intended to limit theapplication or claims to the specific embodiment illustrated.

In one aspect, a security system monitors a home or commercial buildingand its occupancy 24/7 with remote connectivity. An integrated HVACcontrol interface can provide energy savings and offer remote access.

In another aspect, HVAC control modules can be coupled to a securitysystem with multiple configurations to provide low cost installationsusable in residential and business applications. Combining HVAC controlmodules with a security keypad or panel can reduce labor cost andhardware material cost. Providing wireless, satellite, HVAC controlmodules that use RF communication to/from the security keypad or controlpanel can reduce labor cost at installation, and eliminate commoncomponent costs such as providing a display on the HVAC control modules.Remote connectivity can be provided to HVAC control functions via theassociated security system.

An integrated solution could incorporate a full featured HVAC controlmodule which could be plugged into a security control system keypad suchas the TUXEDO TOUCH brand keypad offered commercially by HoneywellInternational Inc. Additionally, a temperature sensor, relays, seven dayscheduling circuitry, setpoint control and energy saving ecology mode ofoperation can be provided.

Additional configurations based on a wireless, satellite, HVAC interfacemodule can be supported with an associated security system's RF wirelesstechnologies for communicating temperature, relay states and useroperational signals. The wireless module greatly reduces installationtime by eliminating wire runs back to the security system.

In another aspect, wireless HVAC control modules could be installed atan existing thermostat wall location. In this configuration, the modulecould connect back to the HVAC equipment with existing wiring. Inembodiments hereof, no display is needed at the wireless module. Thesecurity system control unit can be used not only to control the HVACfunctions but also to display information for a user. This results in acost reduction and a more convenient user-interface experience as wellas less clutter on a wall.

FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment 10 which includes a housing 12 whichcarries a security system display/keypad module and thermostat, HVACcontrol, combination in accordance herewith. For example, housing 12includes a common display module 14 for both security monitoring andHVAC functions. One known type of display module, which includes a touchscreen type display, is the TUXEDO TOUCH brand line of monitoringcontrol modules, displays and control circuits marketed by HoneywellInternational Inc., the assignee hereof. The display module 14 iscoupled to a security control board 16. The control board 16 can includedisplay control circuits, 16 a, radios and control circuits for wirelesscommunications 16 b, for communicating with a plurality of detectorssuch as D1 . . . Dn of a type noted above. Other control and interfacecircuits 16 c could be included as would be understood by those of skillin the art.

Circuitry 16 can be coupled to a thermostatic, HVAC control, module 18.Module 18 can be mechanically attached to housing 12 with a snap-fit.Other mechanical attachments come within the spirit and scope hereof.

The module 18 utilizes the display and control features of the displaymodule 14. The modules 14, 16 can be used without the module 18 ifdesired.

Communications can be provided, via a wired connection through a port,and an ECP bus to security related devices such as a main control panel,door/window detectors, intrusion detectors, glass break detectors andthe like, as well as ambient condition detectors such as gas, fire orsmoke detectors. The thermostatic, HVAC control module 18 can be coupledby new or existing wiring to the HVAC equipment to implement temperatureor environmental control.

The module 18 can include one or more temperature sensors 18 a, relays18 b for control of furnaces, fans, and/or air conditioning equipmentall of which could be coupled to the module 18 with standard HVAC-typewiring as would be understood by those of skill in the art.Advantageously, the module 18 need not carry any control or displayelements since the display module 14 can provide all such features forboth the security system control module 16 as well as the HVAC controlmodule 18.

FIG. 3 illustrates a wireless embodiment 30. The combination 30 includesan exemplary wireless LYNX or TUXEDO TOUCH brand touch screen module 34.The module 34 can include a display, or touch screen 34 a as well asmanually operable keys 34 b. The module 34 can communicate via a wiredECP bus, or wireless via radios, such as Z-wave or other protocols 34 c.

The module 34 can communicate wirelessly with one or morethermostatic/HVAC control modules, such as module 38. The display 34 acan also present information, or receive inputs for the module 38 whichneeds only temperature regulating local keys or switches 38 a andLED-type display devices 34 b. The push buttons 38 a can provide localtemperature adjustment and the displays 38 b can provide a localindicator as to the ambient temperature relative to a set-point, andused for learning/assignment of the device unique ID into the displaymodule. For example, the display unit could be placed into a “learnmode” then a unique combination, or timed sequence of button presses onthe remote module would cause the device to be learned.

Module 38 can communicate with the HVAC equipment via standard wiringwhich would be understood by those of skill in the art. That wiring canalso provide electrical energy, for example 24 volt AC to energize themodule 38. Because the module 34 displays information and can acceptcommands for both the associated security system and the HVAC module 38,the cost of the module 38 is advantageously reduced and it can present aless obtrusive presence on the wall.

FIG. 4 illustrates a wireless combination 40 with a display/controlmodule 34 and a wireless thermostatic, HVAC control module 38′. Aplurality of modules, similar to 38′, such as 38′-1, 38′-2 . . . 38′-n,can be in wireless communication with security system control module 34.Those elements in FIG. 4 which have been previously described have beenassigned the same identification numeral as previously used and need notbe described further.

The module 38′ includes a battery 38 d, which could be rechargeable. Inthe FIG. 4 combination 40, the module 38′ needs only a two wireinterface to the HVAC equipment since it obtains its power locally.

The module 38′ can also include manual input buttons, or switches, 38 aas well as a limited LED display 38 b. It will be understood thatinformation pertaining to the module 38′ can be presented, as previouslydiscussed on a display, such as the display 34 a, and also used toprovide information as to the associated security system. Commands canalso be provided wirelessly to the module 38′ via the display 34 a andkey pad 34 b.

Module 38′ can be operated to maximize the available energy from thebattery 38 d. In an exemplary low power operational method, the module38′ can read the ambient temperature, via a two wire communication linkto the HVAC equipment, once every ten seconds. Readings can be averagedevery thirty seconds. Temperature can be transmitted to the module 34whenever the temperature changes by a predetermined amount, for example,one-half degree C.

With a stable unchanging temperature, a temperature message can be sentto the unit 34 with longer time intervals, for example once an hour toprovide a sync pulse to the module 34. The module 34 can use thismessage for synchronization and to send a control message to thethermostatic module 38′ after a predetermined time interval, such as tensecond intervals. A listening window can be provided for a response onthe order of 250 ms, without limitation.

Control messages can be sent from the module 34 to the thermostaticmodule 38′ to activate the control circuits and relays on the module38′. Status messages can be transmitted from the module 38′ to thecontrol module 34 in response to received instructions from the module34.

FIG. 5 illustrates a cloud based embodiment 50. In the embodiment 50 thesecurity system, 54, comparable to the system 34, is wireless networkenabled, for example Wi-Fi, and can communicate wirelessly via one ormore routers, such as 60, via the Internet I, with one or more HVACcontrol modules such as modules 58 . . . 58-n, also WiFi enabled. Inthis regard, the modules 54 and 58 . . . 58 n each include appropriatewireless circuitry such as 54 c and 58 c to implement thecommunications. In the embodiment 50, there are no local connectionsbetween the modules 54, 58. All communications are via the Internet.Modules 54, 58 . . . 58-n each include a multi-dimensional display, suchas 54 a, 58 a, and manually operable inputs such as 54 b, 58 b. Forexample, the WiFi functionality could be implemented without limitationusing any available wireless local area network protocol such as GSM,CDMA, 4G etc. for internetworked connectivity.

In summary, embodiments hereof offer multiple integrated and wirelessHVAC control solutions for a security system. Several exemplary securitysystems plus HVAC control modules have been disclosed herein. Eachcombination provides an advantageous cost configuration to address avariety of installations and business applications.

There could be a snap-on HVAC control module that can be embedded in asecurity keypad. There could be wall mounted, wireless, satellite HVACcontrol modules that use reliable low power RF communication thattransmit and receive data messages with the security keypad. There couldbe a battery powered wireless satellite HVAC control modules thatconnect to the security keypad. There could be WiFi enabled HVAC controlmodules that connect to the same cloud as the security system andintegrated in the cloud to allow event/action automation in the cloud.Embodiments hereof are useful in new construction or retro applicationsto achieve low system cost, ease of installation, optimal energymanagement and remote control.

For example, a connected security/HVAC system can include a securitykeypad control unit such as a TUXEDO TOUCH, or LYNX TOUCH brandmonitoring unit and a plurality of wireless HVAC interface modules. TheHVAC interface modules can be battery, or, AC powered or PoE satellitetemperature zone controllers that are displayless, except for some pointsources such as LEDs, and are wired to operate heating/cooling/fanequipment with known HVAC wiring schemes. Wireless communications can betransmitted to a security system which has a display that providescommon user interface for users to operate security and HVAC controlfunctions.

In another configuration, an HVAC controller module includes atemperature sensor, multiple relays for heating/cooling/fan equipmentcontrol, status LED's, push buttons, RF communication radio, HVAC wiringterminal blocks and power supply. The device has no display, other thanthe LEDs, and functions as a satellite HVAC interface module that can bewirelessly controlled by a security keypad or self-contained securitypanel. The buttons could be used for adjusting the setpoint temperaturewarmer or cooler by one degree and for set-up and device ID assignment.

The LED's could have, for example, three colors. A blue LED can indicatethe setpoint temperature is lower than the ambient room temperature,which means the HVAC system is currently providing a cooling function. Agreen LED indicates the setpoint is matching the ambient roomtemperature, which means the HVAC system is currently in an idle stateand the room temperature is at desire level. A red LED can indicate thatthe setpoint temperature is higher than the ambient room temperature,which means the HVAC system is currently providing a heating function.

An HVAC control module that is battery powered can be provided. Powerstealing circuit can be included to recharge the battery. Wirelesscommunication can be implemented with a low power mode to wakeupperiodically to measure temperature, transmit data and receive RFcontrol messages from the security system.

A cloud connected embodiment includes a security system and one or moreHVAC control modules all with WiFi (or other internetworkingconnectivity) connectivity to the cloud for integration. There is nolocal peer-to-peer connection between the security monitoring system andthe HVAC control modules. The cloud connects all of the devices andprovides event/action control. The security system and the HVAC controlmodules each have a display.

A method of automating HVAC control in an emergency event with asecurity system integrated with HVAC control can also be implemented.The system includes a security system with built-in HVAC control orsatellite HVAC control modules and life safety sensors such as smokedetectors, CO detectors, heat detectors and other hazard detectors; amethod of detecting a life safety alarm condition from the sensors,determining the source/location/type of the alarm, determining the typeof HVAC equipment that needs to be properly turned on or off to bettercontrol the spread of the hazardous gas. In the case of a CO alarm, thesystem can turn on ventilation equipment to circulate fresh air inside abuilding or region of interest.

Multiple wireless HVAC modules can communicate with a single monitoringsystem. A connected security/HVAC system can incorporate and communicatewith a plurality of wireless satellite HVAC control modules. Such asecurity system could include a plurality of different wirelesscommunication technologies and control multiple satellite HVAC controlmodules in different zones using different wireless technologies such asZ-Wave, Zigbee, WiFi, 6LoWPAN, Honeywell's 5800 Brand product, and RF6systems.

A method of improving comfort control with a security/HVAC system thatincludes multiple environmental sensors in different areas of thebuilding where the security/HVAC system includes a table/array/databasestoring location information of wired or wireless temperature andenvironmental condition sensor. The readings from several sensors can beaveraged, or otherwise processed to provide better comfort control in anarea of a building.

A method of identifying HVAC equipment trouble conditions, diagnostic,life expectance and maintenance with a security HVAC system thatincludes environmental sensors and equipment diagnostic interfacingmodules. The connected Security HVAC system that comprise of atable/array/database storing HVAC equipment information of wired orwireless environment sensors and equipment diagnostic interfacingmodules and integrates an algorithm to detect equipment troubles,diagnostic symptoms, filter life expectances and maintenanceindications. The connected security HVAC system can communicate HVACequipment status to the cloud processing center, the end user's mobiledevices and/or maintenance repair crew processing center. The securitysystem could also display the equipment status on the screen for on-siteinformation update.

In a method of operating security and HVAC equipment on mobile devicesthrough a security system and connected HVAC control modules, thesecurity system or displayless HVAC control modules can be connected bya mobile tablet or smartphone via the cloud and users can operate theirsystems locally and remotely.

From the foregoing, it will be observed that numerous variations andmodifications may be effected without departing from the spirit andscope hereof. It is to be understood that no limitation with respect tothe specific apparatus illustrated herein is intended or should beinferred. It is, of course, intended to cover by the appended claims allsuch modifications as fall within the scope of the claims. Further,logic flows depicted in the figures do not require the particular ordershown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results. Other stepsmay be provided, or steps may be eliminated, from the described flows,and other components may be add to, or removed from the describedembodiments.

1. A security system with a thermostatic module comprising: a housing; asecurity monitoring system having an interactive user display module,carried by the housing, for user control of a security monitoring systemwherein the monitoring system is coupled by at least one of a wired, or,a wireless medium to members of a plurality of condition detectors; atleast one HVAC control module which is one of, displaced from the userdisplay module, or engages a portion of the housing with a snap-fitwherein the HVAC control module communicates with the user module; andwhere the display module includes a multi-dimensional display unit forvisually presenting both HVAC related information and security relatedinformation pertaining to the monitoring system.
 2. A system as in claim1 where the HVAC control module and the user module are in one of wiredor wireless communication with one another.
 3. A system as in claim 1further comprising a plurality of HVAC control modules with the displayunit presenting HVAC related information associated with more than oneof the modules.
 4. A system as in claim 1 wherein the HVAC controlmodules comprise AC powered satellite temperature zone controllers thatare displayless, except for at least one LED, and can be wired tooperate heating/cooling/fan equipment with known HVAC wiring schemes,with wireless communication to the security monitoring system where thedisplay module provides a common user interface for users to operatesecurity and HVAC functions.
 5. A system as in claim 1 wherein an HVACcontrol module includes a temperature sensor, multiple relays forheating/cooling/fan equipment control, status LED's, push buttons, aradio, HVAC wiring terminal blocks and power supply wherein the deviceis displayless, except for light emitting diodes of differing colors,and functions as a satellite HVAC interface module that can bewirelessly controlled by a security keypad or self-contained securitypanel and which includes manually operable buttons for increasing ordecreasing a setpoint temperature by a predetermined amount and wherethe light emitting diodes provide local temperature information relativeto the setpoint.
 6. A system as in claim 1 wherein at least one of theHVAC control modules is battery powered with circuitry to recharge thebattery, and, wherein wireless communications can be implemented with alow power mode to wakeup periodically to measure temperature, transmitdata and receive, wirelessly, control messages from the security system.7. A cloud connected apparatus comprising a security system andthermostatic control module both with wireless network connectivity and,in the absence of local peer-to-peer connection therebetween, the cloudconnects both devices and provides communications therebetween, andwherein both the thermostatic module and the security system include adisplay.
 8. An apparatus as in claim 7 wherein connectivity can beselected from a class which includes at least GPRS, 6LoWPAN, Z-Wave,Zigbee, WiFi, and RF6 systems.
 9. A method of automating control of HVACequipment in an emergency with a security system including: an HVACcontrol module comprising: one of detecting a life safety alarmcondition from sensors of the security system; determining thesource/location/type of the alarm; determining the type of HVACequipment that needs to be properly turned on or off to better controlthe spread of the condition; and turning on ventilating equipment inresponse thereto.
 10. A method as in claim 9 wherein the alarm conditioncomprises a hazardous gas, and turning on the ventilation equipmentcirculates fresh air in a region being monitored.
 11. A method ofimproving comfort control with a combined security monitoring/HVACcontrol system that includes: multiple environmental sensors indifferent areas of a region of interest, where the combinedsecurity/HVAC system includes: a table/array/database storing locationinformation of wired or wireless temperature and environmental conditionsensors; and wherein the readings from several sensors can be averaged,or otherwise processed to provide better comfort control in a region ofinterest.
 12. A method of identifying HVAC equipment trouble conditions,diagnostic, life expectance and maintenance conditions with a combinesecurity and HVAC control system that includes: environmental sensorsand equipment diagnostic interfacing modules, wherein the connectedsecurity/HVAC system comprises: a table/array/database storing HVACequipment information of wired or wireless environment sensors andequipment diagnostic interfacing modules and including: a method todetect equipment trouble, diagnostic symptoms; filter life expectancesand maintenance indications; and wherein a connected security/HVACcontrol system can communicate HVAC equipment status to a cloud basedprocessing center, the end user's mobile devices and/or a maintenancerepair crew processing center, where the security system could alsodisplay the equipment status on a screen for on-site information update.13. A method of operating a system as in claim 5 including connecting toand operating the security monitoring system and the HVAC control modulewirelessly and remotely via the cloud using one of a mobile tablet or asmartphone.
 14. A system as in claim 3 wherein wireless communicationsbetween the security monitoring system and members of a plurality ofHVAC control modules can be implemented with wireless technologiesselected from a class which includes at least one of Z-wave, Zigbee, andWiFi.